Charity overwhelmed by Sydney’s generosity after hamper theft

ANGLICARE Sydney and the Break the Cycle ministry have been overwhelmed by the generosity of Sydneysiders after hampers for families in need were stolen from Glenquarie Anglican Church on Tuesday.

Donated by the community for ANGLICARE’s Toys ‘n’ Tuckerprogram, the hampers were full of toys and presents that were to be distributed next Tuesday.

Deborah Roake, Break the Cycle co-ordinator, says since the theft they have been many calls of support and donations.

“We even had one of our clients saying that she’d be happy to give up her hamper for the other families and that she was about to start door knocking her neighbours for support.”

Located in one of Sydney’s poorest suburbs, ANGLICARE in partnership with the local parish has been working to assist families in need for the past five years. And according to Deborah the need seems to be increasing.

“Our small office assisted more than 640 people this year and almost a third of them were new clients,” she said.

Minister of Glenquarie Anglican Church Stephen Swanepoel says the week started off with everyone saddened and disappointed by the events, but ended with all very encouraged by the generosity of spirit that was out there in the community.

Since the incident was reported, the local community service organisation has had calls from businesses and even the Premier’s department looking to assist them with their emergency relief program.

ANGLICARE Sydney CEO Peter Kell says that the organisation is grateful for all the support from the community and thanks them for their generosity.

“We are very proud to support a program like Brake the Cycle, and it’s very heartening to see the outpouring of generosity in support of the work being undertaken by Glenquarie Anglican Church. We have been able to replace the hampers that have been stolen. However, there are many more families in our community who are in need of support.”

“If people are interested in helping out their struggling neighbour not only over Christmas but throughout the year, please give generously to the many organisations like ours who are working hard to assist families win that fight out of poverty.”

Those wishing to financially support ANGLICARE’s Christmas Appeal can call 13 26 22.